An Awesome April
Last month, Blue Watch had two great ministry opportunities. Both were at area law enforcement academies. What better than to touch the life of that young officer as they begin their career.
On April 4, we had the opportunity to address graduates at the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy in Jacksonville. This class was almost 70 officers from across the state. We were able to give some encouraging words and then present each graduate with their own copies of “Winning A Gunfight”; “Suicide is not an Option”; and the Bible study book, “Courageous”.
A special thanks to Academy Director Steve Thomas for allowing us this opportunity.
On April 28, we presented to over 20 graduates at the Jefferson County Law Enforcement Training Academy. Jefferson County runs the only academy in the state designed to train deputies. This class of young deputies were from across the state representing 14 counties. Each received their own copies of “Winning a Gunfight” and “Suicide is not an Option”.
A special thanks to Academy Director Tommie Black for affording us this opportunity. We look forward to returning later this year to present to future graduating classes.
Thank You Volunteers!
Blue Watch relies heavily on volunteers to help carry out the mission. Last month two groups helped in a tremendous way.
The ladies of Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church helped prepare gift bags that will be given away at the Christian Family Expo on May 7 at the Hoover Met.
These gift bags will go to the moms and wives of officers attending the event.
The other group were members of the Faith Class at Shades Mountain Baptist Church. They placed stickers inside books given to police academy graduates at the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Training Academy and the Northeast Alabama Police Academy.
Thanks to both groups. We could not have done it without them.
The World Games
There will be a strong law enforcement presence during the World Games and Blue Watch has an opportunity to minister.
Blue Watch has been asked to help feed hundreds of police and fire personnel safeguarding the venues. This is a great opportunity to provide food to nourish their bodies and nourishment for their heart.
To meet the challenge will require significant financial resources. All contributions received May 1 through July 1 will be designated to this endeavor. Prayerfully consider making a one-time contribution to this outreach opportunity. No amount is too small. Every penny will go toward demonstrating the love of Christ to those making a sacrifice to protect us.
To give, click the “Donate” button at the top of the page, or mail a check payable to Blue Watch to 2620 Swiss Lane, Birmingham, AL 35226.
Upcoming Events
May 7
Christian Family Expo
Hoover Met
If you are a law enforcement officer, the mom of an officer, or married to an officer, stop by our booth for your special gift. It is our way of saying thank you for the sacrifice you make.
June 28
Strategic Leadership Series
“Increasing Your Effectiveness in Law Enforcement”
FREE event
Hosted by the Ashland Police Department
8 Hours APOST Credits Awarded
For more information or to register, go to www.bluewatchfoundation.org.
October 3 and 5
Fall Training
“Winning A Gunfight”
Hosted by Blue Watch and Strong Blue Line Seminars
October 3 – Dothan Police Department
October 5 – Birmingham
Look for more details in the coming weeks.
Order Your Books Today – NO COST to You
Blue Watch wants officers to have a clear mind and a whole heart. On our website we offer resources that we believe will help them. Currently we offer the following books:
- “Winning A Gunfight…securing victory ethically, mentally and tactfully in a gunfight”: There is much more to winning a gunfight than just physically surviving. Most who are in gunfights survive but may not win. Learn the difference and how you can survive and win.
- “Suicide Is Not an Option”: Each year 2.5-3 times more officers take their own life than are murdered in the line of duty. Despite the efforts of many, the suicide rate amongst law enforcement officers continues to rise. Retired police sergeant and author, Tim Rupp explores the spiritual aspects and argues there is meaning to life beyond the individual.
- “Courageous Living Bible Study”: This is a four-session bible Study designed to challenge you to live courageously for the sake of your family. Based upon the movie “Courageous” session topics include fighting for your family, valuing what matters most, impacting future generations and standing for Christ.
To order your FREE copies, visit our Book Giveaway Page and let us know which book you would like.
Once you have read it, please share with us your thoughts, good or bad, and we hope you will pass the book to a fellow officer.
We Want to Hear From You!
Blue Watch is here to serve the law enforcement community and its families. We want to hear from you because we want to offer services that you need. The people of Alabama support their officers and they stand ready to help.
Get Involved
There are many ways to support the Blue Watch mission:
- Pray – we need prayer warriors who will pray for us on an ongoing basis and at special events.
- Volunteer – we are in need of people who will help manage our website, social media and other aspects of the ministry. If the mission of Blue Watch is of interest to you and you have a skillset to offer, consider Blue Watch.
- Donate – it takes money to make all of this happen. The Lord greatly blessed us in 2020, but to continue our progress will require increased giving. You can give online or by check.
If any of these are of interest to you, please email us at info@bluewatchfoundation.org.
Support the Mission
Please prayerfully consider making Blue Watch part of your year-end giving. The faithful giving of many in the community has made all we’ve done possible. To continue the mission will require greater community support. If this is something you feel led to support, you can donate by:
- Clicking the “Donate” button at the top of the page.
- Making a check payable to Blue Watch and mail to 2620 Swiss Lane, Birmingham, AL 35226.
Blue Watch is a 501c(3) non-profit. All donations are tax deductible.
The mission of Blue Watch is to help officers and their families experience the relevance and benefits of God in their lives.